Advertisement

Tributes to Elena Baltacha who has died aged 30

The world of tennis is mourning the loss of Elena Baltacha who has died aged just 30.

Elena who was based at Ipswich in Suffolk was diagnosed with liver cancer in January, just two months after retiring from the professional game.

Elena training in Ipswich, Suffolk Credit: ITV News Anglia

She had only recently married her long-time coach Nino Severino.

We are heartbroken beyond words at the loss of our beautiful, talented and determined Bally.

– Nino Severino

Elena Baltacha in Ipswich, Suffolk Credit: ITV News Anglia

Baltacha had dealt with a liver condition called "Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis" which was diagnosed at the age of 19, throughout her career with medication and regular blood tests.

Despiet the disruption it caused, she went on to win 11 singles titles, reached the the third round of Wimbledon in 2002 and reached the same stage in the Australian Open in 2005 and 2010.

Today British Tennis mourns the loss of one of our own. The news of the death of Elena Baltacha, one of the shining lights of British women's tennis of recent generations, is devastating to everyone who has ever had the privilege to know her, play against her, or call her a friend or teammate. It leaves a huge hole in our sport.

– The Lawn Tennis Association

Elena was born in Scotland, the Chief Executive of Tennis Scotland, David Marshall has spoken about the loss. Click below to watch a short clip from him.